By Ibironke Ariyo
The Minister of Youth Development, Mr Ayodele Olawande, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to creating a system that protects, supports, and empowers every young Nigerian.
Olawande made the pledge during the International Anti-Corruption Day commemoration, organised by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crimes (UNODC) and the Ministry of Youth Development in Abuja on Tuesday.
The Minister acknowledged the challenges faced by young people, including a flawed justice system, economic hardship, limited opportunities, and weak institutional structures.
He emphasised that these challenges have led to increased youth involvement in criminal activities, with many prisoners under 35 being held without trial for years.
“I’m here today to assure our young people that we’re listening and acting. Our goal is simple: to create a system that protects, supports, and empowers every young Nigerian.
“The challenges are clear. Many young people are failed by the justice system, with a large number of prisoners under 35 held without trial for years.
“This highlights a dual crisis: systemic delays in accessing justice and growing youth involvement in crime.
“Economic hardship, lack of opportunities, and weak institutions often push young people toward crime, fueling mistrust in the system,’’’he said.
The Youth Minister highlighted the growing issues of drug abuse, mental health challenges, and human trafficking, which exploited young people’s vulnerabilities.
“At the same time, the rising wave of drug abuse is devastating our communities. The prevalence is particularly high among those aged 25-39, a core youth demographic.
“Behind these statistics are countless stories of young people struggling with addiction, cybercrimes, and human trafficking, unable to find help, and battling stigma that further isolates them.
“Mental health challenges, often ignored or misunderstood, exacerbate this crisis. For many, seeking help is not an option due to cultural and institutional barriers.
“Human trafficking is another reality we cannot ignore. It preys on our youth’s vulnerability, robbing them of dignity and freedom.
“Corruption enables these networks to thrive, making it crucial that we act decisively to protect our young people.”
The Minister announced the establishment of the Nigerian Youth Help Desk, a platform for young people to report corruption, seek justice, and access help.
“This initiative responds to the urgent issues hindering youth growth and development in Nigeria.”
The Minister assured young people that their voices matter, their struggles were understood, and their aspirations were at the heart of the government’s efforts.
He added, “As we mark this important day, let us remember that corruption can only thrive in the shadows.
“By shining a light on it through action, vigilance, and collaboration, we can build a nation where honesty and integrity reign supreme.
“This is our commitment, our responsibility, and our shared purpose,” he said.
